N.W.T. health benefits changes create financial strain for patients

The Northwest Territories (N.W.T.) government recently updated its health benefits program to provide more coverage for residents. However, some patients are facing additional financial strain. The new extended health benefits (EHB) program now covers everyone in the territory based on income levels. Before the change, the program only covered specific chronic conditions. Higher-income individuals now have to pay deductibles for medications. For example, a single person earning just over $64,000 must pay a deductible of $365, while someone earning $100,000 faces a deductible of $800. Rafiq Salehmohamed, a pharmacist in Fort Smith, points out that income doesn't accurately reflect everyone's financial situation. He says many patients with chronic diseases are struggling to afford their medications. Some have even reduced their dosages, which is concerning. Katie Hart, a university student with cystic fibrosis and type 1 diabetes, is currently in the lowest income bracket and not affected yet. However, she worries about future costs if her income increases. Hart expresses disappointment that the government did not fully consider public feedback from a survey that showed more people opposed the changes than supported them. The government estimates that more residents could now qualify for benefits, but only 853 people have registered so far. A government spokesperson said that it’s too early to assess the impact of the new program. Currently, patients are required to reapply for benefits every year, which can be frustrating. One positive aspect of the new program is that it now includes mental health conditions, which were previously not covered. This change could benefit many patients who had been paying for these medications without assistance.